Matt Barber and Peter Egan to return in Downton Abbey’s Christmas special

It has been confirmed that Matt Barber and Peter Egan will return for Downton Abbey‘s final Christmas special.

Lily James – who played Lady Rose in the third, fourth and fifth seasons – also announced her return to the show in an interview at the beginning of November. Meanwhile, Barber, who play’s Lady Rose’s husband, Atticus Aldridge, has now also been confirmed for the finale, alongside Egan who plays Rose’s father, Shrimpie.

Patricia Hodge – best known for her role in Miranda – will also make an appearance as the mother of Bertie Pelham (Harry Hadden-Paton) in the finale, which will see the families of Downton celebrate New Year’s Eve in 1926.

The synopsis of the episode is already known and reads:

“Mary endeavours to build bridges with her sister while Edith’s secret continues to pose a threat, despite having nothing left to lose. As Henry settles into the role of husband and stepfather, finding his place at Downton proves more difficult. Below stairs, Carson faces some personal challenges, which prove that even he is not invulnerable to change.”

The episode – which will apparently offer both happiness and heartbreak – will see the end of the show’s phenomenal six-year run, which has followed every character through the trials and tribulations of war, love and loss.

The Downton Abbey Christmas finale will air on ITV on 25th December. Watch the trailer for the last season below.